The European Chameleon on Malta

The European chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon) has been present on Malta since the mid‑19th century, likely introduced by humans. Until recently, its current distribution and ecology on the island were poorly documented. A new study by Maltese biologists now provides the first detailed overview.

Researchers surveyed 37 transects of 100 × 10 m across 13 sites. Each transect was walked twice at night, mainly between July and October, with additional winter visits at three locations. For every chameleon found, the team recorded the plant it perched on, its height and position, and whether other individuals were sleeping within three meters. The animals were not handled; photographs were used to estimate body size.

Chamaeleo chamaeleon was detected at all 13 sites. The highest densities occurred in Kennedy Grove and Miżieb. Central and southern Malta showed lower numbers, likely due to less suitable habitat. Winter surveys revealed far fewer individuals. Chameleon abundance increased with distance from roads. Because conifers dominated many sites, most animals were found on these trees, while shrubs and low vegetation were used less often. Sleeping heights were typically between one and three meters, with smaller individuals resting lower. Most measured animals were 2.6–7 cm long and slept alone.